asked the Minister for Health the number of medical cards withdrawn in County Wicklow since the 1st January, 1972.

It has never been the practice of my Department, when collecting the statistics in relation to medical cards to seek the information now requested by the Deputy. I would therefore suggest that the Deputy contact the Eastern Health Board, which is responsible for the general medical services in the area, and which would be able to supply the information sought.

It will, of course, be appreciated that in all areas medical cards are issued where new applicants establish their rights to them.